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Heart failure

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Heart failure

Heart failure means that your heart muscle doesn't pump as much blood as your body needs. In time, this causes fluid to build up in your body, and you have symptoms like swelling in the legs and feeling out of breath and weak.

Heart failure usually gets worse over time. But treatment can slow the disease, help you feel better, and help keep you out of the hospital. Treatment may also help you live longer.

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

NOTICE: This health information was not created by Columbia University Irving Medical Center and may not necessarily reflect specific CUIMC practices. For medical advice to your personal condition, please consult your doctor. Medical advice disclaimer.